MIDDLESBROUGH defender has completed his move to FC Cincinnati.

The left-back has linked up with the MLS side on an initial loan deal until December, but it's understood there's an option for the switch to then be made permanent.

Engel has endured a difficult 18 months on Teesside since joining Boro from Silkeborg in the summer of 2023.

And the return of Ryan Giles pushed Engel further down the pecking order at the Riverside. Neto Borges will rival Giles for the left-back spot in the second half of the season and Alex Bangura will be fit again in the summer.

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Confirming the move on Tuesday morning, Boro said in a statement: "Lukas departs with the best wishes of everyone at MFC and we wish him well for his loan."

FC Cincinnati kick-off their MLS season against New York Red Bulls later this month. Engel will come up against former Boro teammate Emmanuel Latte Lath when Cincinnati face Atlanta United at the end of March.

Engel played 53 times for Boro. His last appearance come from the bench late on in last month's home win against West Brom.